What is OXINIUM◊ Oxidized Zirconium?

If it is determined that an implant made with VERILAST? technology is right for you, the femoral - or thighbone portion - of your implant will be made from OXINIUM Oxidized Zirconium - a patented and award winning ceramicised metal alloy that Smith & Nephew spent more than a decade developing.

During manufacture, OXINIUM implants undergo a process that transforms the implant's surface into a hard, ceramicised metal - while still retaining all of the durability of the underlying metal. In addition to being more durable than a true ceramic, this metal implant's ceramicised surface is more than twice as hard and therefore twice as resistant to the kind of scratching that can cause a cobalt chrome implant to wear out before its time.1

Also, unlike cobalt chrome, the OXINIUM material contains almost no nickel (< 0.0035% vs. ? than 0.5%) and is therefore biocompatible for patients with metal allergy or metal sensitivity.

Important Safety Notes

Knee replacement surgery is intended to relieve knee pain and improve knee functions. However, implants may not produce the same feel or function as your original knee. There are potential risks with knee replacement surgery such as loosening, fracture, dislocation, wear and infection that may result in the need for additional surgery. Longevity of implants depends on many factors, such as types of activities and weight. Do not perform high impact activities such as running and jumping unless your surgeon tells you the bone has healed and these activities are acceptable. Early device failure, breakage or loosening may occur if you do not follow your surgeon's limitations on activity level. Early failure can happen if you do not guard your knee joint from overloading due to activity level, failure to control body weight or accidents such as falls. Talk to your doctor to determine what treatment may be best for you.

The information listed on this site is for informational and educational purposes and is not meant as medical advice. Every patient's case is unique and each patient should follow his or her doctor's specific instructions. Please discuss nutrition, medication and treatment options with your doctor to make sure you are getting the proper care for your particular situation.

All information provided on this website is for information purposes only. Please see a healthcare professional for medical advice. If you are seeking this information in an emergency situation, please call 911 and seek emergency help.